Applications for Bachelor’s and Integrated Master’s programs closed on April 22, 2025. The MAP-Tele Doctoral Program's second phase is open from July 1 to July 11, 2025, and results from the first phase will be published on May 16.
The University of Minho enrolls over 21,000 students, with 8.5% coming from abroad, reflecting its growing international appeal. It offers over 100 master's programs across 14 disciplines, including top-ranked fields like Textile Science & Engineering (ranked #21 globally) and Food Science & Technology (top 75).
With campuses in Braga and Guimarães, the University of Minho provides a diverse academic environment for those looking to study in Europe. It maintains a 15:1 student-to-staff ratio, ensuring personalized attention. The following sections detail UMinho's admission procedures and essential information for prospective students.
Before deciding on a university, understanding what it offers and how to apply is essential. Here's how admissions and academic programs at the University of Minho work.
Admission Process and Programs at University of Minho
The University of Minho, based in Portugal, offers a wide range of academic programs across its 12 schools and institutes. If you plan to apply, understanding the admission process and programs at University of Minho is essential.
To gain admission, prospective students must present a recognized secondary school diploma for undergraduate programs or a relevant Bachelor’s degree for postgraduate studies. All applications are processed online through the university's official portal.
Here’s what you’ll need to begin your application:
Requirement
Details
Academic Requirements
Bachelor’s: Secondary school diploma recognized for university entry in your country, legalized or apostilled, and translated into Portuguese or English.
Master’s: Relevant Bachelor’s degree and official transcript of records, legalized or apostilled, GPA Scores, and translated into Portuguese or English.
Proof of Eligibility
Declaration confirming your diploma qualifies you for the intended degree in your home country.
Understanding the programs available is only half the journey. Knowing how to apply is also crucial. Let’s walk through the step-by-step admission process and programs at University of Minho.
Step-by-Step Admission Process to Study at University of Minho
The University of Minho offers a structured and transparent application process for international students aiming to study abroad. Whether you're applying for Bachelor's, Integrated Master's, or Doctorate degrees, the following steps outline the general procedure:
Review Eligibility Criteria and Program Requirements: Ensure you meet your chosen program's specific academic and language requirements. A secondary school diploma equivalent to the Portuguese 12th grade is required for undergraduate programs.
Proof of language proficiency (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL)
Curriculum Vitae (CV)
Motivation letter
Any additional documents specified by the program
Register on the Academic Portal: Access the University of Minho's Academic Portal and create an account to start your application.
Complete and Submit the Application Form: Fill out the online application form, providing accurate personal and academic information. Upload all required documents in the specified formats.
Pay the Application Fee: An application fee of €68 (INR 6.5K) is required. Payment can be made through ATM services, MB WAY, or a credit card.
Await Admission Decision: After submission, your application will be reviewed by the admissions committee. Decisions will be communicated via the Academic Portal and email.
Confirm Acceptance and Enroll: If admitted, follow the instructions provided to confirm your acceptance. Prepare to apply for a student visa for Europe if you are a non-EU applicant.
Once you've completed the application, keep track of deadlines and check the portal regularly for updates on your admission status. This ensures you stay on top of the admission process and programs at University of Minho throughout the cycle.
After understanding how to apply, the next step is choosing the right course. Here's a look at some of the most sought-after programs at the university.
Popular Programs at University of Minho
The university offers 53 undergraduate and integrated master's degrees, 130 master's courses, and 45 doctoral programs, including engineering, sciences, arts and humanities, economics, business, social sciences, education, and health sciences.
These programs provide excellent options for courses to study abroad after 12th, especially for students interested in gaining international exposure.
Here are some notable programs offered at UMinho:
MSc in Advanced Structural Analysis of Monuments and Historical Constructions: This program focuses on the structural analysis and conservation of historical constructions, combining theoretical knowledge with practical applications.
MSc in European and Transglobal Business Law: Designed for students aiming to specialize in international business law, this program covers European and global legal frameworks.
MSc in Health Studies: This program offers advanced training in health sciences, preparing students for research and professional practice in the healthcare sector.
BSc in Biomedical Engineering: Combining engineering and biological sciences principles, this course focuses on developing medical devices and technologies.
BSc in International Business: Focusing on global trade, economics, and cross-cultural management, this course prepares students for international business environments.
The university's emphasis on research and innovation ensures that graduates are well-prepared to meet the challenges of their respective fields.
With programs identified, timing becomes critical. Knowing when to apply can make or break your application. Here’s what to know about intakes and deadlines.
University of Minho: Intakes and Deadlines
The University of Minho holds several annual admission phases for international applicants to Bachelor's, Master's, and Doctoral programs. For instance, the second call for Master’s applications runs from July 4 to July 15, 2025. Most intakes align with the fall academic calendar, so checking specific deadlines is essential.
Below are the key dates and details for the 2025/26 intake:
Application Period: March 1 - May 15, 2025 (Closed)
Deadline: April 30, 2025
After sorting out when to apply, it’s time to consider how much it will cost and what financial support options are available.
University of Minho: Fees and Scholarships
The University of Minho offers affordable tuition, ranging from €872 to €6,500 (INR 83K to INR 6.2L) annually, depending on the program and level of study. International students can apply for several scholarships, including academic merit Awards and emergency financial aid.
These initiatives aim to ease financial pressure and reward academic excellence. Here’s a quick breakdown of what you can expect to pay based on your chosen program and educational level.
Tuition Fees for University of Minho
Tuition at the University of Minho remains affordable compared to many Western European universities, offering solid value for international students. Bachelor’s programs generally cost around €2,500 (INR 2.3L) annually, while most Master’s programs begin at approximately €3,500 (INR 3.3L) annually.
Here’s a breakdown of estimated annual tuition fees across major academic fields for international students:
Cost is a key factor for many, but scholarships can make a big difference. Here’s a breakdown of scholarship options available at UMinho.
Scholarships to Study at University of Minho
The University of Minho is committed to supporting international students through a variety of study abroad scholarship programs and financial aid opportunities. These include merit-based awards and social support scholarships, with 50 annual scholarships for disadvantaged students at the University of Minho.
Here are some key scholarship options available to international students at the University of Minho:
Scholarship
Type
Details
UMinho’s Emergency Social Fund
Internal
Eligibility: For students with proven financial need (all nationalities, including non-EU).
Benefits: Partial or full tuition coverage, living support.
Civil Engineering Scholarships
Internal
Eligibility: Students entering the Integrated Master's in Civil Engineering.
Benefits: Full tuition fee coverage for all 5 years.
UMinho’s Academic Merit Award
Internal
Eligibility: Students in UMinho’s social programs with a final average ≥ 16/20
While funding matters, so does your chance of getting in. Let’s look at how competitive admissions are at the University of Minho.
Acceptance Rate at University of Minho
The University of Minho maintains a selective admissions process, with an acceptance rate of 40%. While specific acceptance rates for individual programs are not publicly disclosed, it is important to note that certain disciplines, such as Communication Sciences and Cultural Studies, may have more competitive admission processes.
Below are the acceptance rates for key programs at the University of Minho:
Program
Acceptance Rate
Chemical and Biological Engineering
40%
Communication Sciences
40%
Cultural Studies
40%
Adult Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy
40%
Beyond acceptance, the university’s reputation plays a role in many decisions. Here's how UMinho ranks on the global stage.
University of Minho: Rankings
The University of Minho is consistently recognized as one of Portugal’s top public universities and maintains a strong international reputation across major global ranking agencies. In the QS World University Rankings 2025, Minho is placed in the #611-620 band, reflecting its growing visibility on the worldwide stage.
Here’s an overview of the latest rankings for the University of Minho:
To explore further, it’s worth examining how individual subjects compare, especially if you’re targeting a specific field of study.
Subject-wise Rankings of University of Minho
In the 2025 global subject rankings, the University of Minho (UMinho) has achieved notable positions across various disciplines. It ranks #301-400 in Psychology and #601-800 in Computer Science (THE). QS ranks its Education & Training program in the #151-200 band.
These results reflect UMinho’s academic strength in specialized areas, including top technical courses such as Computer Science and Engineering. Here’s how major academic disciplines are ranked in the latest global subject rankings:
While rankings reflect academic performance, your overall experience also depends on the quality of life on campus. Here's what the University of Minho offers in terms of student support, environment, and day-to-day life.
Student Life at University of Minho
Student life at the University of Minho is rich, diverse, and supported by extensive facilities and services across its 3campuses. Located in Portugal, often among the best countries to study abroad for affordability, safety, and quality of life, the university promotes a strong sense of community and student well-being.
Campus Facilities and Services:
An active student body benefits from modern facilities, including specialized libraries such as Biblioteca Nuno Portas and Biblioteca Fernão.
Three main campuses, each equipped with libraries, canteens, bars, and sports complexes.
Social Support Services provide affordable meals through 4 main refectories and multiple bars and cafeterias across campuses.
Cultural and Social Activities:
More than 15 student-run cultural groups, including music, theatre, dance, fado, folklore, and poetry ensembles.
The Students’ Union (AAUM) organizes major academic events like Welcome Week and Enterro da Gata, as well as concerts and exhibitions.
Sports and Recreation:
Over 70 sports are available, including football, basketball, swimming, rugby, tennis, judo, climbing, and karting.
The University of Minho’s Sports Complex hosts cultural and leisure events annually, and the university is recognized for its award-winning student athletes.
Student Support and Well-being:
Social Services provide support in accommodation, food, scholarships, medical and psychological care, and integration activities
Medical and psychological support is available on campus, ensuring student health and well-being.
Career and mobility support includes guidance for internships, job fairs, and participation in Erasmus+ and other exchange programs.
Integration and International Community:
Dedicated initiatives for welcoming and integrating new students, including orientation sessions and peer support from older students.
Events and activities are designed to promote international student integration and academic success.
Orientation programs also include practical guidance on budgeting, helping students adapt to the typical cost of living in Europe while settling into life at UMinho.
UMinho's commitment to providing comprehensive support and diverse opportunities ensures a fulfilling student life, balancing academic studies with personal growth and community involvement.
Beyond student life, many applicants consider how well a university prepares its graduates for employment. Here’s how UMinho performs when it comes to post-study outcomes.
Career Opportunities After Graduation from University of Minho
The University of Minho is recognized for strong graduate employability and industry connections, opening up diverse job opportunities in Europe. It has impressive employment rates across various disciplines. For instance, the School of Economics and Management has a 97.7% employment rate for its recent graduates.
Here are some typical job roles and expected salary ranges for University of Minho graduates:
Note: Approximate Salary figures may vary based on current exchange rates.
The scope of career options is one thing. Knowing who hires UMinho graduates and what they hire them for provides a more detailed understanding.
Top Recruiters Hiring Graduates from University of Minho
The University of Minho maintains strong connections with diverse employers, enabling strong career opportunities for its graduates. Through its Employment Portal, over 1,200 companies actively post job offers, reflecting the university's commitment to bridging academia and industry.
UMinho's graduates find employment across various sectors, including technology, engineering, finance, and research. Notable employers that have recruited UMinho alumni include:
Top Recruiter
Job Role
Average Annual Salary
Bosch
Mechanical Engineer
€45,000 to €55,000 (INR 43L to 53L)
Siemens
Electrical Engineer
€50,000 to €60,000 (INR 48L to INR 58L)
Deloitte
Financial Analyst
€55,000 to €65,000 (INR 53L to INR 63L)
European Space Agency
Research Scientist
€70,000 to €80,000 (INR 68L to INR 78L)
Source: Glassdoor
With strong career outcomes supported by top recruiters, the next step is understanding the application process, where upGrad provides end-to-end guidance for University of Minho admissions.
Step-by-Step Assistance from upGrad for University of Minho Admissions
Applying to the University of Minho involves multiple steps, from program selection to completing online forms and managing visa formalities. upGrad helps you understand and complete the admission process and programs at University of Minho with greater confidence and clarity.
The team assists with preparing essential documents such as transcripts, certified translations, and ID proofs. Visa-related assistance includes document checklists, appointment scheduling, and interview preparation, making each stage clearer and more efficient.
Need help with your application to the University of Minho? Book a free 1:1 session with upGrad experts and get started today!
FAQs
What kind of academic profile gives applicants an edge when applying to competitive programs?
Applicants with high academic achievements, particularly those with strong grades in relevant subjects, stand out. For instance, the School of Engineering emphasizes mathematics and physics proficiency. Additionally, involvement in extracurricular activities can enhance an application.
Are there minimum GPA or grade thresholds for specific departments beyond general eligibility?
Yes, certain programs have specific grade requirements. For example, the Integrated Master's in Medicine requires a minimum grade of 17 out of 20 in secondary education. These thresholds vary by program and are detailed in the annual admission guidelines.
Can students apply to more than one program in the same intake cycle?
Yes, applicants to the University of Minho can apply to multiple programs within the same intake cycle. If admitted to more than one program, the university places the candidate in their highest-ranked preference among the programs for which they meet the admission criteria.
Does the University of Minho consider gap years or academic breaks during admission review?
Gap years or academic breaks are not considered disqualifying in the University of Minho’s admission process. Applications are evaluated holistically, with emphasis on academic records and required documents. If applicable, applicants are encouraged to explain any breaks in their personal statement.
Are there fast-track or accelerated options for high-performing students in select programs?
The University of Minho does not offer fast-track or accelerated programs. Standard durations apply, but high-performing students may access advanced coursework or research opportunities, such as in the Master in Finance.
What is the role of personal statements or motivation letters in the selection process?
Personal statements or motivation letters are required components and are reviewed to assess applicants’ goals, motivations, and suitability for the program. They supplement academic records and can be decisive in competitive selections.
How does the university treat non-traditional qualifications like professional certifications?
Non-traditional qualifications such as professional certifications are considered on a case-by-case basis, especially for mature or international applicants, and may support eligibility if aligned with program requirements. Official documentation must be provided for evaluation.
What are the most common reasons for admission deferrals being denied?
Deferral requests are typically denied due to insufficient justification, failure to meet eligibility criteria, or limited program capacity. Each case is reviewed individually, and supporting documentation is required for consideration.
Are there bridging or foundation programs for students who fall short of academic prerequisites?
The University of Minho offers a foundation course for international students who do not meet direct entry requirements. This course provides academic preparation before entering degree programs. Details are available through the university’s admissions office.
Does prior research or publication experience impact admission chances for postgraduate programs?
Prior research or publication experience can enhance your postgraduate application at the University of Minho. For example, in the PhD in Management program, points are awarded based on research involvement, ranging from 0 to 25. This experience plays a significant role in the admission evaluation process.
Are program transfers allowed after enrollment, and what is the process?
Program transfers are permitted at the University of Minho. Students wishing to transfer must contact the academic coordinator and submit a formal request. The transfer is subject to departmental approval and the availability of places in the desired program.
University Admission Expert |154 articles published
With over10 years of experience in the ed-tech sector, Sachin holds expertise in operations management, ensuring the smooth functioning of study abroad programs. He has deep understanding of the globa...
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